US Marks 17 Years Since 9/11 Attacks

Americans are commemorating the Sept. 11 terror attacks with somber tributes, volunteer projects and a new monument to victims. |
Photo: ABC News

Updated: September 11, 2018 02:08 PM

NEW YORK (AP) - Victims' relatives, survivors, rescuers and others gathered at the World Trade Center to mark the 17th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

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Nearly 3,000 people died in the attacks on 9/11, when international terrorism hit home in a way it previously hadn't for many Americans. Sept. 11 still shapes American policy, politics and everyday experiences in places from airports to office buildings, even if it's less of a constant presence in the public consciousness after 17 years.

Each year at ground zero, victims' relatives infuse a name reading ceremony with personal messages of remembrance, inspiration and political concern.

Gianina Tan fought off tears as she read her father's name in front of the crowd.

"And my father and guardian angel Cesar Amoranto Alviar, I will miss you and love you always," said Tan.

Politics was also present in the name reading ceremony.

Nicholas Haros Jr., whose mother Frances Haros died on 9/11, pleaded with politicians to stop using the tragedy to win political points.

"Please stop using the bones and ashes of our loved ones as props in your political theater. Their lives, sacrifices, and death are worth so much more. Let's not trivialize them or us, it hurts," said Haros.

Trump: Nation recalls when 'America fought back'

President Donald Trump says the nation is recalling "the moment when America fought back" during the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

Speaking in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, during a somber remembrance at the Flight 93 memorial, Trump said the fallen "joined the immortal ranks of American heroes."

The president is honoring those killed 17 years ago at the site where the fourth airliner crashed after 40 passengers and crew members realized what was happening and tried to storm the cockpit. He says the fallen "took control of their destiny and changed the course of history."

Trump listened as the names of the victims were read aloud, followed by the tolling of bells.